em·phasisAW [emphasisemphases] BrE [ˈemfəsɪs] NAmE [ˈemfəsɪs] noun (pl. em·phasesBrE [ˈemfəsiːz] ; NAmE [ˈemfəsiːz] )uncountable, countable1. special importance that is given to sthSyn: ↑stress •~ (on/upon sth) The emphasis is very much on learning the spoken language. •to put/lay/place emphasis on sth • Increased emphasis is now being placed on corporate image. •We provide all types of information, with an emphasis on legal advice. •There has been a shift of emphasis from manufacturing to service industries. •The course has a vocational emphasis. •The examples we will look at have quite different emphases. 2. the extra force given to a word or phrase when spoken, especially in order to show that it is important; a way of writing a word (for example drawing a line underneath it) to show that it is importantSyn: ↑stress • ‘I can assure you,’ she added with emphasis, ‘the figures are correct.’

Word Origin: late 16th cent.: via Latin from Greek, originally appearance, show, later denoting a figure of speech in which more is implied than is said (the original sense in English), from emphainein ‘exhibit’, from em- ‘in, within’ + phainein ‘to show’.

Language Bank:emphasisHighlighting an important point▪ This case emphasizes ▪ / highlights ▪ the importance of honest communication between managers and employees. ▪ Effective communication skills are essential ▪ / crucial ▪ / vital ▪. It should be noted that ▪ this study considers only verbal communication. Non-verbal communication is not dealt with here. It is important to remember that ▪ / An important point to remember is that ▪ non-verbal communication plays a key role in getting your message across. ▪ Communication is not only about the words you use but also your body language and, especially ▪ / above all ▪, the effectiveness with which you listen. ▪ I would like to draw attention to ▪ the role of listening in effective communication. ▪ Choose your words carefully: in particular ▪, avoid confusing and ambiguous language. ▪ Finally, and perhaps most importantly ▪, you must learn to listen as well as to speak. note at ↑essential Language Bank at ↑vital

Example Bank: •Both subjects should be given equal emphasis. •Education received special emphasis. •Examine the events leading to the war, with particular emphasis on France's role in them. •He put extra emphasis on the word ‘never’. •His slight emphasis on the word ‘Lady’ was definitely mocking. •I believe the education system places undue emphasis on exam results. •In recent years, the emphasis has moved away from punishing drug addicts towards helping them. •Little emphasis was placed on educating people about the dangers. •She repeated the question with emphasis. •The Democrats shifted the emphasis away from direct taxation. •The company lays great emphasis on customer care. •The emphasis is on keeping fit rather than developing lots of muscles. •We discussed where the main emphasis should be placed. •a cultural emphasis on educational achievement •schools that put a heavy emphasis on sporting achievement •with the new emphasis on individuality and creative expression •The classes have a vocational emphasis.